Rapid identification of Enterococcus italicus by PCR with primers targeted to 16S rRNA gene

Aims: To develop a species-specific PCR assay with primers targeted to 16S rRNA gene for the identification of Enterococcus italicus, a new species of Enterococcus, involved in the production of Italian cheeses. Methods and Results: The type strain of E. italicus (DSM 15952(T)- 16S rRNA gene accession no. AJ582753) and other strains of the species were subjected to a rapid identification by PCR using primer pairs located within the 16S rRNA gene. A species-specific PCR product of approximately 323 bp was obtained after amplification of all E. italicus strains tested. The specificity of the primers was validated with representatives of the most closely related genera and species and a number of other bacterial species. In addition, the technique enabled the recognition of E. italicus from cheeses. Conclusions: The protocol was highly efficient and sensitive, enabling the identification of E. italicus from cheeses. Significance and Impact of the Study: The species-specific PCR offers a reliable and rapid alternative to conventional phenotypic methods for the identification of E. italicus within the heterogeneous genus Enterococcus.